The Philippine Army (PA) said Monday, July 11, that it has accepted into its reserve force 155 individuals who recently finished a two-month Basic Citizen Military Training (BCMT) in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
The reservists were recognized during their graduation ceremony held at the PA Headquarters NCR Regional Community Defense Group (NCRRCDG) in Fort Bonifacio. Among them were lawyers, teachers, engineers, and actress Nathalie Hart or Princess Tinkerbell Cristina Marjorie Pedere Snell in real life.
The 155-strong members of BCMT “Salinlahi” Class 01-2022 hurdled the reservist's training program from May 15 to July 9, 2022.
“The training program equipped them with basic soldiery and warfighting skills. The class is composed of professionals from various fields,” said Col. Xerxes Trinidad, PA spokesperson.
Maj. Gen. Fernando Felipe, commander of the PA’s Reserve Command, led the pinning of ranks to the newly enlisted reserve privates who will be assigned to various Ready Reserve Infantry Battalions of the NCRRCDG.
He said reservists have an important role in the expansion base for the active force in times of national emergencies, rebellion, or war. The RCPA Commander also lauded reservists for their crucial role in saving lives during calamities such as onslaughts of typhoons or volcanic eruptions.
“Bear in mind that you have a vital and bigger responsibility not only to the Reserve Force but to our countrymen as well. We are responsible to extend our hand in times of disaster, pandemic, calamity, and even war,” Felipe said.
He also appreciated the courage and determination displayed by Hart, an ABS-CBN actress and a runner-up of GMA-7's Star Struck, while noting that the presence of influential figures in the reserve force greatly boost their chance of recruiting more patriotic Filipinos.
“I really admire your courageous stand to join us in the military, knowing that you are a high-profile individual and a well-recognized actress. As a celebrity, you are a model of individuals, family, organization, and our country. Continue to be a role model citizen and an inspiration to others,” Felipe said to the 30-year-old actress.